We have a great partner in Stora Enso, which is exploring new innovations and ways to work with us and our startups. It’s exciting to see a giant working together with the lilliputs.

What can startups expect from the program and what do you ask for in return?

The global real business case is the core benefit for the startup. On top of the high class program that we have organized together with Aalto University and Stora Enso.

For this unique program, you’re looking for disruptive innovations in digitalization, IoT, big data, analytics, supply chain, AI, VR, and robotics. Is there one trend of these, that you think holds a higher potential than the others? Why?

We are hunting for disruptive innovations on all of the mentioned topics or really anything that relates to Stora Enso value chain on renewable materials and can help in transforming Stora Enso businesses. We look for real impact on business, culture and leadership.

What do you think makes a startup successful? Which of the mentioned qualities are usually missing?

It is about people. Team excellence, passion and trust. Trust means ability to share and use outside help. It is sometimes missing.

What can you tell us about the startups that already went trough your program?

The teams are stronger after the program. They have ability to deliver, decide, handle conflicts and pivot fast. Think out of the box, so to say.

In what ways do you measure your success and how do you make sure your startups don’t lose track?

We keep track of the startups throughout the programs and use end-to-end mentoring actively. The program is designed through the feedback to keep the startups interested continuously.

If there is one thing you can wish for improving the European startup ecosystem, what would it be?